[van-announce] Open Letter to Fire This Time and Youth Third World Alliance

[Ian Beeching]

Open Letter to Fire This Time and Youth Third World Alliance 
February 24, 2008
 
 
On Sunday February 17th 2008 Vancouver Socialist Forum asked Fire This Time and Youth Third World Alliance not to participate in an education discussion we were having on indigenous struggles and Marxism at the SFU Harbour Centre. 
 
 
We did so because some members of your organizations have a history of violence and intimidation that includes harassment, stalking, and assault, and you have rebuffed all efforts to discuss ending these destructive practices. 
 
 
At least one member of our organizing committee has been a victim of violence and intimidation from your leaders. These actions carried out by members of your organization are only part of a broader history of sectarian conflict with many other activists and organizations in Vancouver, including repeated attempts to disrupt and marginalize the organizing efforts of virtually any group that wishes to do effective work independent of your fronts. 
 
 
We felt that your presence at our educations discussion would create a threatening atmosphere to participants and prevent open discussion.  This safe space is needed for Left and Indigenous communities to talk respectfully and openly. 
 
 
The original five FTT/Y3WA members present at the beginning of the event cooperated with the request to not enter the room.  Several individuals remained outside the discussion room holding newspapers. However, these members were eventually joined by approximately five more people that stood on both sides of the hallway. 
 
 
This created a gauntlet that those exiting the room would have to pass down.  After consulting with those attending the event, we decided to leave the event through a backdoor and avoid confrontation. The presence of about ten FTT/Y3WA members escalated disagreement into perceived threat. 
 
 
This intimidation of our organizers and others present is not acceptable. We firmly intend to ensure that our events retain a civil, democratic and non-threatening atmosphere for all participants.
 
 
Vancouver Socialist Forum


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